Vetscan HM5 Results Warning Flags

Ensure the sampling depth is appropriate, the correct tube adapter is being used and that the tube is filled to the manufacturer's fill line. If not, redraw a new sample in a new tube that is filled to the manufacturer's fill line.

If a high WBC count is expected because of severe infection, leukemia or other condition, the flag is confirming a very high WBC count. If a high WBC count isn’t expected, check the Lyse (yellow) tube for kinks and loose connections at the bottle cap or dip tube and back of the analyzer and verify the Lyse line is connected to the correct port on the analyzer and the correct bottle within the pack. If the Lyse reagent tubing can easily come off its connection point, a new set of reagent tubing should be purchased and installed. Prime Lyse, if bubbles are present, then rerun the sample.

Run 2 automatic self-cleanings. If the initial blood draw was difficult, redraw a new sample and rerun. Run Soak Cleaning, if error continues.

If the patient is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or other breed with known predisposition to macroplatelets, perform a manual smear for the WBC and PLT count. If the draw was difficult, redraw, mix more vigorously and rerun. If the issue persists, perform a smear and look for large platelets or platelet clumping or send out.

Redraw sample, being sure to immediately transfer the sample into the tube and invert completely 15-20 times or more. This can also appear when patients have leukemia or lymphoma. If the problem persists after redraw, or if the clinical presentation of the patient is consistent, a blood smear review is recommended.

Visually inspect wash head and clean if necessary, then rerun the sample. If the issue persists, ensure Lyse 2 (orange line) and Diluent (green line) are connected properly to the back of the analyzer and to the correct reagent bottle. If connections are good but bubbles are present, prime Lyse 2 then rerun sample. If connections are not good and/or come off easily, a new tubing set will be required.

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